Driving Under the Influence of Prescription Medications

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Keeping your New Jersey driving record clean may be one of the best
things you can do to qualify for a lower quote on auto insurance. Multiple tickets for moving
violations tend to label you a higher risk driver, resulting in higher premium
costs. One thing you may not recognize as a hazard is driving under the
influence of prescription, or even some over-the-counter medications. Some of
these medications may impair your driving as much as alcohol or illegal drugs.

It may be wise to check your medication labels for warnings such as,
“may cause drowsiness,” or “do not operate heavy machinery while using.” These
kinds of medications may affect your cognitive abilities, making driving too
dangerous.

Medications that tend to cause driving impairment include those for
depression, anxiety, high blood pressure and allergies. Certain pain
medications and decongestants may affect your driving ability as well. It’s an
easy thing to overlook – after all, we don’t think we’re doing anything “wrong”
when we take prescription medication.

Penalties for driving under the influence of legal medications vary from
state to state. You may be subject to a fine, or possible license suspension. A
poor driving record or a history of involvement in crashes can also increase
the amount you would be asked to pay for your car insurance.

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Teaching Your Teen to Drive

Teaching your teenager to drive may be a nerve-wracking experience, but it is important to try to remain calm, and not scream out “brake!” every time they scare you. Before allowing your teenager to test for a learner’s permit, don’t forget to update your insurance policy. It’s a good idea to talk to your agent about a New Jersey auto insurance quote, and see what effect adding a teenage driver will have on your premium.

When taking your teenager out driving for the first time, there are some simple steps that might make it easier on both parties.

•    You may want to start in an empty parking lot, and then progress to side streets with little traffic.

•    It might be wise to discuss the particular driving skills you will be practicing beforehand, and make sure your teen knows the right route to take.

•    While riding in the car, make sure you give your teen simple directions early enough for the directions to be processed and obeyed.

•    You may want to refrain from distracting your teen with too much talking, but do remember to offer praise when deserved.

•    Should your teen make a mistake, it may be best to pull off the road and discuss the mistake right away.

•    Upon returning home, you and your teen may want to offer feedback to each other.

Teaching your teenager to drive does not have to be terrifying. Remaining calm is very important, and getting a good New Jersey auto insurance quote from your agent may be equally important so you are correctly insured for the new driver.

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Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month

July has been designated National Park and Recreation Month since 1985. The National Recreation and Park Association has chosen “Rock Your Park” for this year’s theme, and is encouraging people to take advantage of the five full weekends in the month of July to spend time in a national park. Should you want to purchase a camper to take maximum advantage of the park experience, you may want to check with your agent for a New Jersey auto insurance quote on your camper. You may be able to add your camper to your auto insurance policy, or you may have to purchase a separate policy.

July may be a perfect time for you and your family to take advantage of special activities offered at your state’s national parks. Your children may learn more about the natural world around them through biking, hiking, canoeing or picnicking in the great outdoors. The State of New Jersey website offers virtual tours of all 28 parks. You and your family may want to gather around the computer and pick the park where you may want to camp for a weekend or just spend a day.

A camping trip to a national park may be an inexpensive get-away. You may want to get a New Jersey auto insurance quote on a camper before purchasing it, as different types of campers may require different coverage. Why not check with your agent soon, and take advantage of National Park and Recreation Month?*

Life Insurance Misconceptions

You may think you do not need life insurance in NJ until you are a senior citizen, but that is a very long way from the truth. Life insurance needs may vary at different stages in your life, and your agent could help you identify the right policy for you right now.

You may need life insurance even if you are young and have no dependents. Should you be providing support for aging parents or siblings, you may need life insurance to provide some financial protection for your family in your absence. If you have a large debt that your parents might be liable to pay if you passed away you may want to have life insurance in place to protect them financially. Life insurance purchased at a young age typically means lower premiums.

Some people believe that it is best to opt for a life insurance policy that does not require a medical exam. This is not always true. Should you be a young person in good health, taking the time to go through the medical exam may result in lower premiums for you to pay. Other people believe that life insurance is too expensive. This is not always the case. There are many options available through your life insurance NJ agent. Your agent may be able to help you find the one that is right for you.*